Naperville officials reviewing transportation issues Tuesday decided answers to solving congested roadways needs to come from citizens.
The City Council agreed that before moving ahead with major roadway improvements, they need to assess public opinion on what residents want their city to look like and what degree of tolerance motorists have for traffic delays.
One of the most difficult commutes through the city is on Illinois Highway 59 between Aurora Avenue and Ferry Road. During the evening rush hour, city officials said it takes an average of 26 minutes to travel that route. And for many drivers, that route is only one leg of their overall commute.
Councilman James Boyajian said it is important to find out what upsets people when it comes to roadway improvements.
“What is acceptable and what is unacceptable? Is the pain really worth the gain? I still struggle with that personally,” he said.
Specifically, Boyajian raised concerns about a possible widening of the Washington Street and Ogden Avenue intersection, which would involve significant land acquisition of businesses surrounding the intersection.
Councilwoman Mary Ellingson agreed community comments are vital in guiding future council decisions on roadway expansions.
The council questioned if aggressive intersection widening actually relieves traffic congestion throughout the entire city.
